Respiratory Therapy--FAQs

What clinical affiliations are used by the program?

How much money are respiratory therapists paid?
The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics reported median annual earnings of $48,610 for respiratory therapists (May 2007). The middle 50% of respiratory therapists earned between $40,840 and $56,160. The lowest 10% earned less than $35,200, and the highest 10% earned more than $64,190.

What are the program requirements once I'm accepted?

• Students must earn a grade of ‘C’ (2.0) or better in each required career course (theory and clinical).
• Students are responsible for transportation to and from clinical affiliates.
• Students must complete a physical exam and provide immunization records.
• Students are responsible for securing uniforms, a stethoscope, watch with a second hand, a lab coat and ID pin.
• A liability insurance fee is required.
• A criminal background check is required.
• Students must have health insurance.
• Current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR card. The Moraine Valley noncredit course that provides this training is AH8-039. For more information on CPR for Healthcare Providers, contact Aurora Zwick, Workforce Development, at (708) 974-5735.

Do I need a license or registration to be a respiratory therapist?
Yes, you do. In Illinois you need to take and pass the national Certification Examination, offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care, in order to apply for an Illinois State license. Once you pass this exam, you earn the credentials of CRT. A second level of testing is required for you to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist, or RRT. For more information on the CRT and RRT credentials, see www.nbrc.org.

Can I work full-time while going to school?
Generally not/ The respiratory program is very time-intense. During the 10 week summer semester you will be in school five days per week for approximately 34 total hours per week. Course work during the fall and spring semesters requires a large time commitment also. Most students work part-time while enrolled our program.

Can I choose my clinical assignment, and are the hours flexible?
You will rotate through at least five different facilities while in the program. Efforts will be made to accommodate some clinical requests, but you need to be willing and able to travel to any of the clinical sites, as it will not be possible to accommodate all requests. Starting times may be as early as 6 a.m. The afternoon shift may end as late as 11:30 p.m.. The starting and ending time are determined by the hospital and is not negotiable. Careful consideration of your ability to travel and adjust your personal schedule prior to application into this program is strongly advised.

What are some characteristics of a good respiratory therapist?
Health care demands the highest level of professionalism and ethical behavior of its members. There can be no compromise of academic, professional, or personal integrity of our students or graduates. Respiratory therapists need to be compassionate, empathetic human beings. Therapists see patients and their families during very stressful times. We treat critically ill patients with multiple problems, and patients of all ages with terminal and life-threatening illness.

Respiratory therapy requires excellent critical thinking skills and the ability to make rapid decisions under stress, acting appropriately in emergency situations. Problem solving, being good with your hands, and excellent communication skills also are necessary traits of a respiratory therapist.

Where can I get more information?

Professional Organizations
American Association for Respiratory Care
Illinois Society for Respiratory Care

Credentialing Agencies
National Board for Respiratory Care

Licensure Requirements
Illinois Department of Professional Regulation

If you need additional information or would like to schedule an appointment or talk to current students/practitioners, contact Debbie Guerrero, interim program coordinator at (708) 974-5774 or guerrero@morainevalley.edu.